Big bold productions straight from London's West End, fun-packed family favourites and first-rate thrillers... and that's just a taste of the autumn line-up at Billingham's Forum Theatre.

The new season will see two of television's greatest characters, Harold and Albert Steptoe (played by Jack Nightingale and Harry Dickman as the "dirty old man"), come to life on stage in a fantastic new production Steptoe and Son In Murder at Oil Drum Lane from October 16-21 - the hilarious production is heading to Teesside straight from its run in London's West End.

The Forum Theatre's autumn season has musical magic from October 2-7 with This is Elvis - a production weaving together great songs and a snapshot of the singer's life.

This will be followed from October 9-14 by nail-biting thriller A Party to Murder. The production's line-up includes Tony Scannell, best known for his role in The Bill.

Classic children's tale Danny Champion of the World will be staged from October 23-28.

Other shows planned for October are Tractor Tom 2 on October 1, kids' favourite Mr Men and Little Miss on October 22 and Call Up The Groups on October 29, featuring the Baron Knights and special guests.

Confirmed performances for November include:

5: Buddy Holly and The Cricketers

8: The Vagina Monologues

9&10: The Cotton Club

11: John Hylton as Neil Diamond

12: Dennis Locorriere

13-15: Children's favourite The Gruffalo

16: The Meatloaf Story

17&18: Spirit Of The Dance

21&22: Moscow Ballet

23: Viva Las Vegas

25: Go West, who'll be performing pop hits including We Close Our Eyes and Call Me

26: Talon - the best of The Eagles

* For more information and ticket details, contact the box office on 01642 552663.